Patrons will enjoy a strolling dinner of international cuisine with local wine and craft beers, all prepared and served by culinary students. An online auction with unique options such as private parties and restaurant dinners will be offered in conjunction with the event.

The 2016 Taste raised $87,000. GLCI Director Fred Laughlin said the funds raised by the event, first held at the Park Place Hotel in 1994, are vital to many students.

“The event goes a long way to showcase the talent of our students and providing them with needed funds to continue their education,” he said.

The Great Lakes Culinary Institute at Northwestern Michigan College is designed to provide rigorous and concentrated study for students planning careers in the rapidly growing food service industry. The program’s main emphasis is to prepare students for entry-level chefs and kitchen management positions. It is accredited by the American Culinary Federation, one of fewer than 200 U.S. colleges to receive that distinction. Students are eligible to become ACF Certified Culinarians upon graduation.